Western Asiatic Gold Pendant, Early First Millennium BCE

Description

Of high karat gold, the sheet disk embossed with three reclining rams, centered by a hemispherical knob, the knob outlined in pinched dots, the disk surmounted by a suspension loop.

This gold pendant attests to the exceptional skill of Achaemenid goldsmiths.  Greek writers often speak of the tremendous wealth of the Persians, and Herodotus writes that King Xerxes’ troops “were adorned with the greatest magnificence…they glittered all over with gold, vast quantities of which they wore about their persons” (vii.83).

Dimensions: Diameter: 4.5 cm (1.77 inches)

Condition:  Intact and in excellent condition overall good condition

Provenance: Ex. Anavian family Collection acquired over 30 years ago by David and Henry Anavian in Iran, prior to the Shahs departure.